Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole

16 janvier 2026 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction

This casserole is built for busy weeknights when you want comfort without fuss. It pulls simple fridge staples together in under an hour and cleans up fast. Use frozen florets to shave prep time or roast ahead to concentrate flavor. For more easy casseroles that save the evening, try this brown sugar banana French toast casserole for a breakfast version of quick comfort. Keep the pace steady and the payoff cheesy.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish balances speed and texture by steaming the vegetables briefly so they remain tender but not mushy. A creamy mix of sour cream, mayo, and cheeses coats each floret for consistent flavor. Sautéing the onion and garlic first unlocks sweet savory notes without long cook time. Optional cooked and crumbled meat adds protein and makes the casserole a full meal in one pan. The baking step melts and browns the top for an irresistible finish. Small tweaks like using pre-shredded cheese or leftover rotisserie meat keep hands-on time under 20 minutes.

Flavor and Texture

The cheddar brings sharpness while mozzarella delivers stretch and melt for a playful bite. Sour cream and mayonnaise create silkiness and help the sauce cling to cauliflower and broccoli. Paprika and garlic powder offer subtle warmth without overpowering the vegetables. A quick sautéed onion base gives a familiar savory backbone that readers expect from a comfort casserole. Topping with green onions after baking adds a fresh pop that lifts the whole dish.

Ingredients

– 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
– 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled meat (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Steam or blanch the cauliflower and broccoli florets for 5 to 7 minutes until tender but still slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined.
5. Add the cauliflower and broccoli to the bowl and stir gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the cheese mixture.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7. If desired, sprinkle cooked crumbled meat and chopped green onions on top.
8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to set the sauce and make slicing easier.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use frozen florets straight from the bag and microwave them briefly to skip the stovetop blanch. Swap pre-shredded cheese and pre-chopped onions to save five to ten minutes. Leftover cooked chicken or turkey works great as the optional crumbled meat and keeps ingredients simple. If you like a crunchier top, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end watching carefully. For an even faster one pan meal, roast florets in the dish while you prepare the sauce.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool leftovers to room temperature then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat single portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or warm the whole dish at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly. Assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and bake when ready to eat for a no-hassle dinner. Portions freeze well: freeze cooled squares for up to two months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Short Closing Note

This casserole feels indulgent while staying real and doable for busy cooks. Tweak cheeses, swap proteins, and make it your go to weeknight win.

Conclusion

For an alternate version and more ideas, see this detailed Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole guide that expands on toppings and timing.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.